28405, Wilmington, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28405, Wilmington, North Carolina is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.12 percent of the residents in 28405 has some form of health insurance. 35.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.99 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 28405 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,971 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28405. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,723 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,508 health care providers accessible to residents in 28405, Wilmington, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Wilmington, NC (ZIP Code 28405)

This analysis provides an "Arthritis Score" assessment for medical care accessibility and quality within ZIP code 28405 (Wilmington, NC), specifically focusing on primary care availability and resources relevant to individuals managing arthritis. The evaluation considers factors crucial for effective arthritis management, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice specializations, telemedicine adoption, and integration of mental health services. This is not a definitive medical rating, but an overview to inform patient decision-making.

The foundation of effective arthritis care rests on accessible and responsive primary care. ZIP code 28405, a significant residential area within Wilmington, presents a mixed picture. While the overall population density is moderate, the concentration of older adults, a demographic highly susceptible to arthritis, necessitates a closer examination of primary care availability. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator. Publicly available data, such as that from the North Carolina Medical Board, indicates that while the area has a reasonable number of licensed physicians, the distribution across specialties, and specifically primary care, is uneven. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially strained relationships between patients and their primary care physicians. This issue is compounded by the fact that specialists, such as rheumatologists, are often in higher demand and have limited availability.

Standout practices within the 28405 area demonstrate varying levels of commitment to arthritis care. Some practices have a strong focus on comprehensive care, including early diagnosis, pain management, and patient education. These practices often employ a multidisciplinary approach, integrating physical therapy, occupational therapy, and access to support groups. Others may prioritize a broader range of general medical services, potentially leading to less specialized attention for arthritis patients. The presence of certified rheumatology nurses or physician assistants within a practice is a positive indicator, suggesting a deeper understanding of arthritis management and a commitment to patient support.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in areas with limited access to specialists. In the context of arthritis, telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of symptoms. Practices that have embraced telemedicine offer greater convenience and can improve patient adherence to treatment plans. The availability of online patient portals and secure messaging systems further enhances communication and allows for proactive management of arthritis symptoms. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine depends on the patient's access to technology and their comfort level with virtual consultations.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet vital, component of arthritis care. Chronic pain and disability can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to increased rates of depression, anxiety, and social isolation. Practices that recognize this and integrate mental health services into their care models demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This may involve on-site therapists, referrals to mental health professionals, or the availability of support groups. The ability to address both the physical and psychological aspects of arthritis can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

The availability of primary care in Wilmington is not just about the number of physicians; it's about the quality of care, the accessibility of services, and the integration of comprehensive support systems. The "Arthritis Score" for 28405 would be influenced by these factors. Practices that prioritize early diagnosis, offer multidisciplinary treatment options, embrace telemedicine, and provide access to mental health resources would receive a higher score. Conversely, practices with limited access, long wait times, and a lack of specialized support would receive a lower score.

Further complicating the landscape is the impact of insurance coverage. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, directly affects patient access to care. Practices that accept a broad range of insurance plans are more accessible to a diverse patient population. The complexity of insurance billing and the potential for out-of-pocket expenses can also impact a patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate care.

The physical infrastructure of medical practices also plays a role. Practices with accessible facilities, including ramps, elevators, and accessible examination rooms, demonstrate a commitment to serving patients with mobility limitations. The availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as X-rays and blood tests, can streamline the diagnostic process and reduce the need for patients to travel to multiple locations.

The overall "Arthritis Score" for 28405 is a dynamic measure. It's influenced by the ongoing efforts of medical practices to improve their services, the availability of new treatments and technologies, and the evolving needs of the patient population. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that individuals with arthritis have access to the best possible care.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the geographic distribution of primary care physicians, specialist availability, and other relevant factors within ZIP code 28405, we recommend exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides a visual representation of healthcare resources, allowing you to analyze data and identify areas with the greatest need.